This jewel of the state park system stretches from 3,000-foot mountain ridges to underwater canyons, taking in majestic redwoods, dense chaparral and rocky seaside cliffs along the way. Oh, and, did we mention the 80-foot-long McWay Falls, tumbling down from granite cliffs into the cove below?
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Pfeiffer Beach is a treasure, so maybe it s fitting that it takes a bit of a hunt to find it the first time. First off, don t confuse it with the other Pfeiffers Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, close but separate entities. FULL STORY
"In summer, when the fog rolls in, one can look down upon a sea of clouds floating listlessly above the ocean; they have the appearance, at times, of huge iridescent soap bubbles, over which, now and then, may be seen a double rainbow." FULL STORY
Though the views from Highway 1 are stunning, this is not a drive-by. Plan to stop. Often.
Where: Highway 1, south of Carmel
Information: www.bigsurcalifornia.org
Whether you walk on Pfieffer, Molera, Sand Dollar, Jade Cove or anywhere else, the sound of the surf, the refreshing breeze, and the view to the horizon. Tom Birmingham, local artist
Just before sunset, in the Big Sur Valley, the sun comes up the valley lower than the trees and lights them from below. The shimmering glow is transcendent. Tom Birmingham, local artist.
Don t like the weather? Hike up or down the hill a bit and you can cool off in the fog or warm yourself in the blazing sun. Dave Egbert, local gardener